Columbus Short Will Not Return To “Scandal”

Columbus Short will not be returning to Scandal for season 4, Short has confirmed. In a statement to Essence.com, Short says his character, Harrison Wright, who was left at gunpoint during the season 3 finale will not return.

“At this time I must confirm my exit from a show I’ve called home for 3 years, with what is the most talented ensemble on television today,” he wrote.

“I would like to first thank Shonda Rhimes for the opportunity to work with such an amazing cast. Thank you GLADIATORS, who have supported me throughout my entire career and of course to ABC and Shondaland for allowing me to play such a pivotal role in the Scandal series. I have enjoyed every single minute of it.”

This marks a sad end to the actor’s run on the show, as his character coined the term ‘gladiator” in the first episode. Short, who began his career as a choreographer working with acts like Britney Spears, and then acting in memorable roles in the films Stomp The Yard and This Christmas has made all the wrong headlines as of late.

He is currently estranged from his wife, Tanee McCall, who has filed for divorce for the third time and was awarded a restraining order after a fight where she says he threatened to kill her and himself.